Comparing two of the most iconic bridges in American history can be a difficult task, but when analyzing the similarities and differences between the Golden Gate Bridge and the Brooklyn Bridge a lot of information can be revealed about the architects and the cities these bridges were built in. Both bridges use a cable suspension design, but are vastly different in appearance; which is largely influenced by the cities they were built in. The Brooklyn Bridge looks much more historic with its dark brick arches and its Gothic style. While the Golden Gate Bridge shines with its bright orange towers and modern style.

Built in 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in the United States. This historical bridge is a hybrid cable-stayed suspension bridge that connects Manhattan and Brooklyn. The Brooklyn Bridge was largely influenced by functionality. Made out of granite and iron, the bridge was meant to endure the weather and the rapidly growing population of New York City. It’s historic look made the Brooklyn Bridge a symbol of pride to its community.

The Golden Gate Bridge opened in 1937 and for almost thirty years it was the longest suspension bridge in the world. Built almost fifty years later than the Brooklyn Bridge allowed the architect to have better access to technology and equipment, but faced more obstacles when dealing with San Fransisco’s weather. Constant fog and strong winds caused many issues with the structure of the bridge. The bright orange allows the bridge to be seen through dense fog and the slimmer, more open design of the arches helps the bridge fight through strong winds. The bridge was also built with a thinner roadway to allow flexibility when the wind hit the bridge. The giant towers and bright orange gives the Golden Gate Bridge an elegant modern style that complimented the new prosperity of California in the 1930s.